Both Concert and Swing bands are organized through Madison-based Ward-Brodt Music. The bands play a variety of music and are comprised of musicians with a broad range of skill levels. While participation in the bands is targeted toward senior (50+) musicians (as that is the concept of the International New Horizons program), the Madison bands do not restrict participation by age: if you want to play with us you are welcome to join.
New to Instrumental Music? No Problem!
New musicians who have never played an instrument before, or who are switching instruments for the first time will be encouraged to participate in one-on-one instruction prior to sitting in with the band. This helps to make the transition to ensemble playing easier for most beginners and is a great confidence-builder. But to be sure: beginners are welcome to participate in the New Horizons program.
Good Fun with Good Folks
The current bands are a mixture of players with varying degrees of experience from accomplished to beginner and this dichotomy is encouraged both by our directors and the New Horizons program itself. We encourage you to play the notes you can and as you get better and better… you’ll play more and more! It’s a fun group that grows together and supports mutual musicianship.
No Pressure!
Some bands expect you to be able to sit down and sight read anything that is put before you. The New Horizons Band is a teaching band and our mission is to help you become a better musician. There is no pressure to become the next “Dizzy Gillespie.” (We’re happy if you just don’t play in the rests.) Join us! You’ll find lots of great folks with good senses of humor and very supportive natures… but most of all, you’ll have an experience of a lifetime!
Join the Band
If you would like to play in the Madison New Horizons Band, we encourage you to sit in with the band on any Wednesday night. The band practices at the WYSO Center For Music at 1118 East Washington Avenue in Madison. Swing band begins at 5:15 PM and concert band kicks off at 6:15 PM. You can contact us via email hookedonbands@gmail.com, or you may contact our principal conductor, Mark Saltzman, at 608-628-3933. You’ll be very glad you did!